Spring camping season is just around the corner, so that means it’s time to hit the great outdoors! Every season comes equipped with its own camping challenges. For those of you who skip the camping grounds and dive headfirst into the wilderness, this one’s for you. Listen up for some tried-and-true tips that will keep your trip safe, happy, and fun!
It's no secret that things are tricky right now due to COVID. Every credible medical source is telling us not to get together with friends and family, especially if we have to travel long distances to see them. These concerns are completely valid if our intention is to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. With all of this said, camping is a great option that will allow you to see your family and friends despite everything. Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash Before the Camping Trip Once you determine when you will be having your camping trip, ensure that everyone that will be attending self-isolates between 7-14 days it takes place. On the 7th day, they should get tested. Once their results come back (hopefully negative), they should continue to self-isolate until the day of...
Read More
Now that the hot summer is behind us, people are starting to adventure into the outdoors more and more. No matter if you camp or not, you have probably heard of a tent, but have you ever heard of a yurt? Do you know how a yurt and a tent are different from one another? Perhaps you are wondering where this item originated from. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of yurts and what they mean for the modern camper. What Is a Yurt? Unlike a tent or even a teepee, a yurt is a circular, dome-shaped shelter that can be easily assembled. The collapsible, foldable frame is made from flexible poles that create lattice walls, making it easy to reassemble. The outside of the yurt is often made of...
Read More
Having a good flashlight is essential. Whether you are camping in dark woods, reading a book under your covers or hiding out during a storm, you want to make sure your flashlight can illuminate your area. With this goal, here are some qualities you should consider when choosing a flashlight. Battery There are several battery options: rechargeable, non-rechargeable and renewable. Non-rechargeable flashlights require batteries, usually AAA or AA. For those who are constantly moving or using their flashlight, rechargeable might be a better option. Renewable refers to flashlights with a hand crank or solar panel, making them idealistic for emergency kits or surviving storms. No matter the battery choice, you want to think about how long the flashlight will last. It is also important to consider if it will fade gradually over time or...
Read More
Valentine’s Day is only one month away. People are thinking about flowers and chocolates and teddy bears. They are planning their romantic dinners or romantic getaways. But what a lot of people don’t consider is a romantic hike. Think about it. You and your significant other are outside in nature, seeing some truly beautiful sights. Hikes don’t cost any money, and you get to spend quality time with each other. It’s a perfect win-win for everyone involved. So instead of wasting time stressing out over presents and expensive outings, consider some of the best romantic hiking spots in Los Angeles to woo your loved one. Be sure to gear up at The Surplus Store before heading out on your romantic adventure! Bridge to Nowhere Our first spot is a 10-mile trip inside the San...
Read More
Whether you are carrying textbooks, all your camping gear or your laptop and charged, having a sturdy backpack is essential. You want to make sure your backpack doesn’t drag you down and instead helps you with your load, whatever it may be. There are four questions you should consider before going out and buying a backpack. What Kind of Backpack Should I Get? There are literally backpacks for anyone and any purpose. You could get a hiking one for those outdoor trips to help alleviate carrying all your equipment. You might be considering a versatile rolling backpack or a lightweight and portable laptop bag. Another idea is a stylish canvas bag. Ask yourself how often you will use the bag and for what purpose. For example, you should probably avoid a high-end designer backpack...
Read More
With the New Year comes new ambitions, and with your upcoming adventures, it’s a good time to invest in some survival supplies. Hiking, camping, excursions to new places – these all involve you being exposed to the elements for a given amount of time. In doing any of the previous options, it’s good to have the supplies you need to keep you safe, nourished and ready for anything nature may throw your way. Here are a few essential survival supplies to have on hand going into the rest of 2019! Something to Start a Fire Utilizing a fire for warmth and food is something that humans have been doing for a LONG time, so proper tools for starting one safely are essential for survival situations. You have a few options when starting...
Read More
There are few places more beautiful than California’s own Big Sur. With beaches and campgrounds, Big Sur has just about everything you’d need to enjoy a weekend outdoors. Are you into eating unique foods, hiking, swimming, lounging on the beach or just relaxing and having a peaceful time reading a book under the stars? A camping trip at Big Sur will help you achieve all of those things. Preparation is key, however, and we’ve got your Big Sur Camp Guide right here! Save Your Money – Go Authentic! Big Sur is one of the most popular destinations for anybody looking for a beautiful, relaxing and exciting adventure (which is just about everyone). Lodging, as you can imagine, is quite expensive in such a highly demanded destination. There are cabins for rent, but...
Read More
Let it Snow! January is a big month for people in Southern California to head to the snow! Whether you're looking to stay in California or head elsewhere, you need to make sure you have the right quality gear with you to brave the snow. At Surplus Store, we pride ourselves on being a friendly neighborhood store that has all of the winter clothing for the snow you will ever need. We know for people who are accustomed to Los Angeles weather, buying the right gear for the snow can be difficult, particularly when the citizens of the Greater Los Angeles Area aren't used to being in those snowy conditions. But don't worry, we've put together a list of reliable, name brand clothes you'll need to stay warm. Wearing the right...
Read More
Something for Everybody: Last-Minute Christmas Gift The perfect last-minute Christmas gift can be found just around the corner on Venice blvd. in Southern California. The Surplus Store is a low cost, affordable, family-owned and operated, camping and military surplus store that may be the exact place you need when looking for a meaningful gift this year. According to our calendars, that special holiday of giving is near; shoppers are scrambling to pick up the best gifts for their friends and family. We may be busy with work and planning events and trips that could pit us with a limited time to shop for gifts. Many shoppers panic on what to get for their loved ones, if you're one of them, don't worry. We’re a large surplus store in the West LA region...
Read More